The community is invited to a public presentation on the theories, tools and techniques successful cities use when studying opportunities for vibrant and inviting public spaces. The presentation is the first component in the visioning process set for the City-owned property at 68-76 Haywood Street and 33-37 Page Avenue. Opportunities for community participation over the course of the process will also be presented.

The meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m., Thursday, May 19, and will take place in the US Cellular Center Banquet Room. Placemaking experts Ethan Kent and Philip Winn from Project for Public Spaces will share key components of great public spaces. The presentation will be followed by a question and answer session with the community. This event is free and open to the public.

In March 2016, Asheville City Council approved a public visioning process for City-owned property located on Haywood Street in downtown Asheville. The process is being facilitated by Asheville Design Center in collaboration with City staff and a City Council-appointed advisory team. Community engagement efforts will inform a long-term vision for the properties while also serving to identify opportunities for temporary installations to enliven the space in the short-term.

Asheville Design Center

The Asheville Design Center is a local nonprofit focused on creating livable communities and is led by staff and a group of volunteers who have expertise in design, architecture and landscape architecture. This meeting is free to attend and the public is welcome.

Project for Public Spaces

The Project for Public Spaces is a nationally recognized organization based on New York City whose goal is to encourage great public spaces and placemaking in order to strengthen community connections, create local destinations and enhance quality of life and urban vibrancy.